Every parent and child enjoys the special moments connecting over a favorite book. Children often ask for the same title to be read over and over, delighting in each page as if it was the first time hearing the tale. Parenting experts and psychologists agree that this practice is important for family bonding and for [...]
Stuart Brown, M.D, author of Play: how it shapes the brain, opens the imagination, and invigorates the soul, asserts that play is an essential component of success for both adults and children; noting that the majority of Silicon Valley corporations include ping-pongs tables, slides instead of stairs, and game rooms. Corporate human resource departments have [...]
Last month’s article explored the contentious topic of homework in the elementary school years. Many researchers, educators, parents, and authors assert that premature and improper homework can hinder the development and academic growth of children under the age of twelve. However, there are conditions under which homework can provide positive and valuable benefits for elementary [...]
The value of homework in the elementary school years is a contentious issue among parents. No-homework policies are being integrated in many American schools where the shift to Common Core curriculum has required educators to rethink how students spend their time and to what extent doing homework equates to actual learning. The past twenty-five years [...]
Fall registration for 2016/2017 is beginning in many districts and private schools. Accordingly, many parents are getting ready to enroll their five-year-olds in kindergarten. Children who will reach their fifth birthday by September 1st are eligible for kindergarten in California, however, kindergarten is not considered compulsory in California. Some parents select two years of preschool [...]
Throughout history, education has been shaped by societal needs. Education is a process which conveys, from one generation to the next, the skills, values and knowledge that are needed for a successful life. Parents, families and schools play a key role in supporting the development of 21st century skills. These skills are not a fad [...]
Recent books such as Being Wrong, How to Raise an Adult, and The Gift of Failure indicate there is a growing concern regarding teenagers and young adults who are coming to college and the business world as undeveloped, lacking in self-efficacy, anxious and depressed, and fearful of taking educated risks. Parents already have mounting concerns [...]
Mr. Mrs. Dr. Miss.: Titles and The Parents Choice Many parents and educators comment that children of this generation are lacking in respect and etiquette in a variety of social areas. Most children learn how to address adults in conversation through watching their parents or being told by their parents. However, parents today have conflicting [...]
The holidays are the perfect time to help children cultivate and express their gratitude for friends, family, and their community. Building on last month’s article, this issue contains excellent activities from The University of California Berkley, Greater Good Program. Many of these family friendly crafts and events can be adapted to fit any age level. [...]
Thanksgiving is more meaningful than simply gathering family and celebrating a good meal. With many public schools dropping the celebration of all holidays, parents have a unique opportunity to teach their children about thankfulness. This time of year is perfect for cultivating an understanding and practice of gratitude. A grateful perspective has been shown to [...]
